Sep 26, 2017

Wisconsin could reverse implementation of shot clock

Wisconsin coaches and athletic administrators appear to be having second thoughts about implementing a shot clock in high school basketball.

According to the Wisconsin State Journal, high school athletic directors believe they were given little opportunity to provide input on the issue. They’re concerned about the cost of installing clocks — roughly $2,000 — and paying for operators.

In June, the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association’s Board of Control approved a 35-second shot clock for boys and girls basketball. The new rule would take effect beginning with the 2019-20 season.

During a meeting this week, WIAA Executive Director Dave Anderson said the Board of Control is authorized to revisit and reverse its decision, according to the article.

We published an editorial in our latest issue applauding Wisconsin for adopting a shot clock. We urged other states to do the same.

Winning Hoops surveys over the last few years consistently show that about two-thirds of coaches support a shot clock for high school basketball. Opponents worry about the cost and talent gap, while supporters insist it’s better for the game, players and fans.

Wisconsin is set to become the ninth state to use a shot clock. Maryland recently adopted a 35-second shot clock for boys basketball (it was already in place for girls basketball).